What to Expect Working with Intellectually & Developmentally Disabled Adults

Bello Machre offers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the services, opportunities, and support they need to live full, independent, rich lives. Our direct support professionals (DSPs), are at the heart of what we do.

What You’ll Learn:

• A Day in the Life of a Direct Support Professional
• Bello Machre DSP Career Options
• Core Responsibilities of a DSP
• Keys to Success in the Role
• Video: Meet Our Dedicated DSP Team
• DSP Salary, Benefits, and Career Pathing

Day in the Life of a Direct Support Professional

Bello Machre offers people with intellectual and developmental disabilities the services, opportunities, and support they need to live full, independent, rich lives. Our direct support professionals (DSPs), are at the heart of what we do. They work directly with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities via our Residential Group Home Services, Community Development Services and Employment Services.

Working with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities requires compassion, dedication, and a genuine desire to make a positive impact in the lives of those you work with. In exchange, you will have one of the most rewarding professions imaginable.

In this blog, we’ll delve into the DSP career and explore a day in the life of several Bello Machre DSPs.

Bello Machre DSP Careers

DSPs work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Bello Machre group residences, at their workplaces, and out in the community. Bello Machre DSPs help teach independent living skills, plan community-based activities, offer employment coaching and support, and implement individual program plans. At Bello Machre, a  DSP career could include three main areas of service:

Residential Services

Many DSPs start in Residential Services, supporting small community living with three to four adults and seniors in Bello Machre-owned homes. They help each person grow, develop, and live life to the fullest. 

In addition to helping people work toward their individual program plans, DSPs will help clean, cook, and be a shoulder to lean on. They’ll serve as a counselor, coach, and friend.

“You have to be family. This is more than just a job. We do what is best for each other and make sure everyone is well taken care of. These ladies are my life. I can’t imagine my world without them.”

-Hannah, Bello Machre Residential Services DSP

Community Services

Through Bello Machre’s Community Services, adults and seniors with intellectual and developmental disabilities build social, vocational, and employment skills in a community-based setting. These DSPs help people with disabilities enjoy more fulfilling days – and lives – via customized, community-based services, including social, recreational, educational, and employment opportunities. Their goal is to help enrich the lives of the individuals they serve through activities within the community that promote personal and professional growth.

“It takes someone kind, giving, courageous, understanding, and generous to be a DSP, and Bello Machre supports you in every way imaginable. They train you, assist you with vehicles, and make sure there is always someone there to support you. I’m proud to say I’m a Bello Machre DSP.”

-Juanita, Bello Machre Community Services DSP

Employment Services

For individuals focused on professional growth, our Employment Services DSPs help adults build vital vocational and workplace skills. These dedicated team members provide personalized employment coaching and career opportunities in the community. By serving as an on-the-job coach and mentor, these DSPs empower individuals to find meaningful work, develop professional skills, and achieve long-term independence in their careers.

How DSPs Support People with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Bello Machre DSPs help with household chores, meal preparation, personal hygiene, and medical oversight. They run errands; participate in recreational, volunteer, and social activities; transport people to appointments; and assist with employment coaching and support. Some responsibilities might include:

• Helping individuals develop friendships and other relationships in the community.
• Increasing community engagement and building natural support networks.
• Obtaining social services related to employment, education, and recreation, including job coaching, employment support, and transportation to and from activities.
• Supporting and tracking the progress of each person toward their personal plan goals. 
• Advocating for services, including employment accommodations and modifications.

Keys for Success as a DSP

While no prior experience is required to become a Bello Machre DSP, those who succeed in the role are helpers and caretakers by nature. Patience and understanding are essential when working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Our DSPs are open-minded people who take the time to truly understand the unique goals, desires, and needs of each individual they serve. They have solid organizational skills and a great sense of humor, never taking themselves too seriously. If this sounds like you, explore our open DSP positions.

Meet Three Bello Machre DSPs

DSP Salary, Benefits, and Work/Life Balance

At Bello Machre, DSPs enjoy purposeful work, competitive pay, and flexible shifts to accommodate various lifestyles – whether full-time, part-time, weekends, or evenings. Paid, on-the-job training ensures that DSPs are well-equipped to provide the highest quality care.

Bello Machre recognizes the importance of supporting its DSPs both professionally and personally. Full-time staff receive a comprehensive healthcare package including 100% company-paid medical, dental, and vision insurance, in addition to long- and short-term disability insurance. We also offer flexible spending accounts for medical and dependent care.

Explore DSP Job Opportunities with Bello Machre

If you’re seeking a career that combines rewarding work with personal growth, consider joining the Bello Machre team as a DSP. Embrace the opportunity to work with individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, making a positive impact on their lives while enjoying competitive pay and comprehensive benefits.

If you are ready to make a difference, explore our open DSP jobs in Maryland and submit your application online today.